2004 Fiat Barchetta vs. 1997 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 2004 Fiat Barchetta is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Microbus would be higher. At 2,551 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Microbus (134 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2004 Fiat Barchetta. (129 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Microbus should accelerate faster than 2004 Fiat Barchetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 600 kg more than 2004 Fiat Barchetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Microbus is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Fiat Barchetta, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Volkswagen Microbus (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Fiat Barchetta. (162 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Microbus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Fiat Barchetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Fiat Barchetta | 1997 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Barchetta | Microbus |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1755 cc | 2551 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2470 mm |
